Fundraising helps Penrith triathlete represent Team GB in Germany

[K]aren Bridge of Penrith, Cumbria has always been a committed runner, winning medals and trophies in competitions for many years. However, just 8 years ago she began competing in triathlons, and in that brief time has progressed to winning silver medals for Team GB.

Running was always Karen’s strongest discipline, but at the age of 40 she was keen to conquer new challenges. Having never been a confident cyclist or swimmer, she added them to her already busy training schedule.

Over the past 8 years, Karen has clearly excelled in triathlon competitions and set her sights on a gold medal. However, the financial cost of equipment, entry fees, accommodation and travel make taking part in these events difficult. As a result, until recently, Karen thought her dream of achieving her goal would not come true.

Thanks to a contribution to her fundraising from local cake business Traybakes Ltd, Karen is now able to represent Team GB at the European Triathlon Union (ETU) in Regensburg, Germany next year.

Unfortunately, Karen’s current bike is now holding her back. The bike is 8 years old and not as modern or fast as other competitors’ bikes. Karen aims to complete her triathlon in under 11 hours, but her bike is preventing her from achieving this.

A fundraising appeal has now been started to buy the bike Karen needs in order for her to do well in her event.

Triathlete Karen said: “This was my last year, due to finances, until Traybakes came along.

“I would love to try and break the 11 hour time and also win that elusive gold medal. A newer competition bike would make a huge difference in achieving this.”

Traybakes MD, Justine Carruthers, said: “Karen is hugely talented and with great determination and hard work she has achieved so much in such a short space of time. Defying the odds, she has succeeded in achieving a number of silver medals for Team GB.

“It would be just wonderful to help Karen to raise the funds she requires to upgrade her bike to give her the best possible opportunity of achieving the Gold Medal that she so desires and deserves.”